'Deeply moved' Bartman receives World Series ring from Cubs

Steve Bartman, the infamous Chicago Cubs fan driven into hiding after interfering on a fateful fly ball at Wrigley Field in the 2003 National League Championship Series, said he is "deeply moved and sincerely grateful" to have received Monday a 2016 World Series ring from the club - a gesture that makes him "hopeful" the drama that began 14 years ago is finally behind him.

"Although I do not consider myself worthy of such an honor, I am deeply moved and sincerely grateful to receive an official Chicago Cubs 2016 World Series Championship ring," Bartman said in a statement, according to WGN. "I am fully aware of the historical significance and appreciate the symbolism the ring represents on multiple levels. My family and I will cherish it for generations.

"Most meaningful is the genuine outreach from the Ricketts family, on behalf of the Cubs organization and fans, signifying to me that I am welcomed back into the Cubs family and have their support going forward. I am relieved and hopeful that the saga of the 2003 foul-ball incident surrounding my family and me is finally over."

Like Bartman, who was "overjoyed" after Chicago stormed back from a 3-1 deficit to shock the Cleveland Indians in the 2016 Fall Classic, the Cubs expressed their hope that this brings an end to Bartman's "unfortunate chapter" in their 108-year quest to snap their championship drought.

"While no gesture can fully lift the public burden he has endured for more than a decade, we felt it was important Steve knows he has been and continues to be fully embraced by this organization," the Cubs said in a statement. "After all he has sacrificed, we are proud to recognize Steve Bartman with this gift today."